Mike Partch

Mike was the youngest son of Jenny and Ambrose Partch and brother to Skip (Dave), Greg and Steve. Mike passed away this past Monday at his home at Merry Glen in Spokane with his brother Greg at his side.

Merry Glen is a group home for "kids" with special needs that was created by Kaye Epton, a mother with a DD son, in the 1970s to become an alternative to state institutions. Jenny and Ambrose were amongst its first members and helped her create a place where special needs kids could thrive under the careful watch of loving and caring parents, siblings and guardians. Although Mike was developmentally disabled, he never let that define him.

Everyone who came in contact with Mike came away happier than before they met him. His life at Merry Glen was a life filled with happiness and friendships. Every day was special, and everyone was special to Mike. When you left him it was always with a smile. When our parents passed, it was with the knowledge that their son was in loving hands until this day that they would be together again. The Merry Glen story that they helped create is filled with happiness and innocence.

We want to thank all of our dedicated staff (family) for making my parents' dream come true of a life well-lived and a promise fulfilled. Jenny, Ambrose and Mike are smiling down and saying thank you to all of you who made his life so special.

A family graveside service will be held at a later date. Memorials in Mike's memory are welcome and can be sent to: Merry Glen Parents' Cooperative,

2917 N. Cincinnati Spokane, Wa. 99207 (For more information about MG see their website site at: http://www.merryglen.org)

Bruning Funeral Home of Colfax is caring for the family. Online condolences may be made at http://www.bruningfuneralhome.com.